London Community Players’ production of The Great Gatsby plays on the Palace Theatre’s David Long Main Stage, September 24 to October 4. Director Andrea Bennett talks about the production in this Q&A Interview with Richard Young.
Q. Tell me about The Great Gatsby – backstory, author, performance history, etc.
The Great Gatsby is a widely known, widely studied novel that has been adapted many times. Although I never studied it in school, there was always something about the story that has always drawn me. I saw a production of Gatsby in Scotland at the Pitlochry Festival theatre (made famous by Artistic Director Alan Cumming) and it struck a chord something fierce. It wasn’t long until I was incessantly in the ears of those who decide the season. A little over a year later and here we are.
Q. Why was The Great Gatsby chosen as LCP’s Season Opener?
Why not open with a Bang!
Q. Could you provide a brief plot synopsis?
Set against the glittering excess of 1920s New York, The Great Gatsby follows Nick Carraway as he becomes drawn into the world of the mysterious Jay Gatsby. Beneath the parties and glamour lies a story of ambition, obsession, love, and the devastating consequences of chasing an impossible dream.
Q. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel has remained in print since it was first published in 1925. It has been adapted for the stage and the silver screen numerous times. How do you account for its enduring popularity?
Who doesn’t love a good love story with suspense and intrigue? Its themes are universal.
Q. Do the themes of the story still speak to audiences in 2026?
Themes of privilege, pursuit of wealth and happiness, toxic relationships, and perhaps most relevant today is the notion of appearance versus reality.
Q. In his notes about this production, author Simon Levy states: “If possible, it would be exciting to have a live musician, A Jazz Man (sax, clarinet), to represent the passion and sound of the Jazz Age, since music is integral to the telling of this story. One should approach this play the way you would a musical.” Have you taken Levy’s suggestion to heart?
No shade to Levy, but man, would I like to sit down with the guy and clear up a few things. But yes, we have a band and dancers…get ready!
Q. I see that your Artistic Team includes a Choreographer. Does this production include dance numbers?
Sure does! And in true community theatre form, I happen to have known the choreographer since she was tiny. I also had the privilege of teaching her in high school.
Q. Could you tell our readers about the Cast?
My Jay has far more charisma than that Leonardo DiCaprio fella, that’s for sure. We have an amazingly diverse bunch of beautiful people. There are a few that I have worked with before and some that I have never but can’t wait to work with again! I deliberately chose to add several ensemble members; it’s a party after all!
(Jacob Wilcox (Jay Gatsby). Photo by Ross Davidson.)
Q. How would you describe the sets, lighting, sound, props and costumes of the play?
Forgive me for going theatre nerd, but it’s the perfect juxtaposition of stripped down staging and outlandish additions. I have a vehicle designer, if you catch my drift.
I’ve known David and Rob for more than two decades and couldn’t imagine anybody else. I specifically chose my sound designer because he has a strong background in film and there is a bit of a cinematic vibe to my Gatsby.
Q. What can audiences expect from this production of The Great Gatsby?
As I mention in my director’s notes, this production takes the glitz and glamour and peels it back to expose the raw, human emotion and relationship dynamics. It’s a more intimate look at the vulnerability that lies beneath.
Q. Is there anything else you think readers should know about the show?
This is definitely not the novel you remember from high school. This is not a light evening of theatre. Expect to confront some difficult content, it’s as bold as it is intimate.
Cast of The Great Gatsby
IF YOU GO:
What: London Community Players present The Great Gatsby.
When: September 24 to October 4.
Where: David Long Main Stage, Palace Theatre, 710 Dundas St., London, ON,
Tickets: Adult $33 | Senior/Student $30 | Youth (Under 18) $20 | Thursday Preview $22 (All inclusive of fees) 2026-2027 Shows – Palace Theatre
For more information about the Palace Theatre Arts Commons, visit Palace Theatre Arts Commons | London ON Community Theatre Follow the Palace Theatre on Facebook and Instagram.
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